'Generous compensation' in place for injured servicemen: Defence Minister

By Poon Chian Hui

Compensation amounts for injured servicemen are "significantly higher" than those given out under the Work Injury Compensation Act and the civil courts, Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen said in Parliament today.

The amount will also be doubled for servicemen who are disabled as a result of military training or operations, he added. "Additional amounts are also provided to servicemen with total permanent disability who require constant care," he said.

Dr Ng was replying to Nominated MP Teo Siong Seng's question on whether Mindef provided adequate compensation for long-term medical expenses and cost of living for injured navy servicemen Jason Chee, who lost his legs and left arm in an accident last month.

Dr Ng gave the assurance that the ministry would cover all his medical expenses for treatment in government hospitals or clinics.